During a study at Harvard in the 1950s, Dr. Curt Richter placed rats in a pool of water to test how long they could tread water.
On average, they'd give up and sink after 15 minutes.
But right before they gave up due to exhaustion, the researchers would pluck them out, dry them off, let them rest for a few minutes – and put them back in for a second round.
In this second try – how long do you think they lasted?
Remember – they had just swum until failure only a few short minutes ago…
How long do you think?
Another 15 minutes?
10 minutes?
5 minutes?
No!
60 hours!
That's not an error.
The conclusion drawn was that since the rats BELIEVED that they would eventually be rescued, they could push their bodies way past what they previously thought impossible.
It is hard not to see the parallels for workers.
What gives you hope?Who will save you?
The Government? They are the ones who pulled you out after 15 minutes, warmed you up and let you rest a few minutes.
Yourself? You're the one who jumped back in after 15 minutes (after the government warmed you up), chasing the American Dream.
Your Boss? The hope that he will recognise and reward your efforts after 60 hours on minimum wage seems… optimistic.
